Born in 1917, he was a pioneering French filmmaker renowned for his influential work in the crime and film noir genres. Originally serving in the French Resistance during WWII, he later adopted his stage name in homage to author Herman Melville. Known for his minimalist style, he directed acclaimed films such as "Le Samouraï" and "Army of Shadows." His work is characterized by its cool aesthetic, existential themes, and meticulous attention to detail, leaving a lasting impact on cinema worldwide.